By Honorary Reporter Ting Yi Lucianne Yu from Taiwan
Photos = Ting Yi Lucianne Yu

The U-12 Baseball World Cup was held this year from July 28 to Aug. 6 in Tainan, Taiwan, by the World Baseball Softball Confederation.

Korea played Panama on July 29, and despite unexpected rain that continued through their game against the Dominican Republic the next day, the Taegeuk Warriors remained optimistic.

The national U-12 Baseball World Cup team see rain during a game.

The Dominican Republic took an early lead but Korea eventually won its third consecutive victory in the tournament. The latter's players not only had outstanding skills but also maintained their composure in tough situations.

Team manager Ryu Duck-hyun

Manager Ryu Duck-hyun said he was "taking a more conservative approach" by aiming to secure a medal in the tournament, though his "ultimate target" was the title. Despite bad weather hindering the team's practice, he said he was determined to lead his team to success. 

"We're making the most of our available resources to stay mentally and physically prepared for the games ahead," he said. 

Korea played the U.S. on Aug. 1 and New Zealand the next day. I also interviewed five players and their parents who thanked Taiwanese fans for their support, shared their baseball journey and explained how they made the national team. 

Players filled out these questionnaires.

The players also described their favorite foods in Taiwan, the songs they loved the most and personal mottos to express their dreams of representing their country in baseball on the global stage. Visit the Honorary Reporters' website for detailed interviews and photos.

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.